Stay Safe this Summer

03/07/2018

The Western Trust is reminding parents and children of all ages to play safe this summer to avoid preventable attendances to our Emergency Departments (A&E).

Dr Ian Crawford, Emergency Department Consultant based at South West Acute Hospital said: “Summer time is great for children and young people, however, we would like to remind parents that A&E statistics show attendances for children are highest during the summer months. By following these simple safety tips some incidents can be avoided to ensure children have an enjoyable and safe summer.”

Here are some safety tips from Western Trust’s Emergency Department (A&E) that will help keep your child's summer a safe one.

Protect children from excessive exposure to sun - especially from 12 noon to 4 pm. Use a sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 15 or higher and drink plenty of fluids.

Never leave children unattended in or near the water. Wear flotation devices at all times. Empty paddling pools or water play toys after use.

Make sure children always wear a helmet and protective elbow and knee pads when riding a bicycle or scooter, Heeleys, rollerblading or skateboarding.

When setting up play equipment including slides, trampolines and swings, make sure that there is plenty of space around the equipment. Don’t place them on concrete/tarmac ground and keep clear of walls and fences.

Supervise children whenever they use play equipment, making sure children stay clear of the front and back of swings while in use or limit numbers using bouncy castles or trampolines.

Keep children away from areas where any lawn mowers are being used. Never allow children to ride on mowers.

Minimise the risk of bee and insect stings by having children wear shoes and light-coloured clothing. Use insect repellent sparingly on older children and never on infants.

Keep children from playing near barbecues and bonfires and always have water present when fire is involved. Only adults should use lighter fluid.

Strap children in a properly fitting seat belt, car seat or booster seat when travelling by car or aeroplane.